Welcome to the McCarron Group at the University of Connecticut.
Our group’s research focuses on experimental studies in quantum science and atomic, molecular and optical (AMO) physics. The emphasis is on methods to directly produce and probe molecules at ultracold temperatures (< 0.001 K) using cryogenics and laser-cooling and trapping techniques. These low temperatures enable exquisite control and expose the quantum nature of molecular interactions to careful study.
This research develops new techniques applicable to molecular species with favorable properties to advance our understanding of strongly interacting quantum systems and ultracold organic chemistry. Our work will help to establish ultracold molecules as an improved resource for quantum science, precision measurements and new emerging quantum technologies.
Research
Learn about our research activities applying laser cooling and trapping techniques to molecules.
Teaching
Details about the academic courses recently taught and under development by our group members.
Outreach
Information about the outreach efforts that integrate our research group into the local community.
October 2025
UConn now offers a Quantum Science & Technology certificate with Dan teaching the section on quantum computing. You can learn more here at the dedicated website or please get in touch.
September 2025
We recently detected our first beam of atoms from our oven in the portable lithium-7 apparatus. We hope to have a 2D MOT feeding our UHV region soon. Congratulations to all involved!
